MOGADISHU, (HAN) — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has earned praise as a skilled negotiator, adept at balancing domestic and foreign priorities during his second term. His administration has revitalized Somalia’s diplomatic profile, despite occasional setbacks.
Relations with Djibouti, Kenya, and the UAE have seen fluctuations. While ties initially improved, the UAE withdrew its support earlier this year following diplomatic tensions. In contrast, Somalia’s engagement with Somaliland and Puntland remains relatively stable.
A diplomatic highlight was Somalia’s handling of the Ethiopia–Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which granted Ethiopia access to the Red Sea via Awdal. President Hassan’s firm stance defending Somalia’s sovereignty drew international support from the G7, European Union, Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, United States, Turkey, African Union, and China.
Economically, the administration has achieved historic milestones. The UN arms embargo was lifted in December 2023, and over $5 billion in national debt was cleared. Somalia also joined the East African Community (EAC), opening new trade and regional integration opportunities. Domestic revenue rose 30% in early 2024, driven by housing and transport, while the launch of a National ID system aims to improve governance, security, and service delivery.
Challenges remain. Militants continue to adapt, economic diversification is slow, and poverty is widespread. Political and institutional reforms, including constitutional review and federal power-sharing, have progressed sluggishly due to clan rivalries and regional disputes.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration has marked Somalia’s second term with notable diplomatic and economic achievements. Yet, long-term stability and prosperity will depend on security, political reconciliation, and sustainable economic growth.
